Multi-fit clip

ABSTRACT

A clip for securing a portion of a long thin item such as a cable or pipe comprises of a cradle portion for receiving a surface of an item to be secured, a fixing portion with at least one formation extending to be securable to a support, and a flexible member extending from a location at or adjacent an end of the cradle portion. The flexible portion has a free end and formations at or near the free end to engage with other formations fixed in relation to the cradle portion. In use, the cradle portion and the flexible member define an enclosing loop, such that the flexible member may hold an item against the cradle.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to supports for securing an item relativeto a support. Typically the item will be a pipe, conduit or cable. Thesupport will typically be a wall, ceiling, soffit, floor, gantry or anyother structure.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Typical construction includes many examples of pipe, conduit and cablesto be supported relative to an underlying structure. For example watermay be supplied through supply pipes of relatively small diameter, wastemay be carried in pipes of larger diameter, rain water carried from roofin pipes of still larger diameter. Other services may also be carried inpipes of many possible diameters. For example electrical orcommunication cables may also be carried in conduit, with sizes selectedaccording to the cables being carried.

Tidy installation requires that these pipes and conduits are supportedrelative to the underlying structure so that they are not easilydislodged by being knocked, by vibration, by the action of any internalcontents flowing through them, or through seismic activity. Propersupport can prevent the conduit being unduly stressed, and thereforeincrease the life of the system. In addition, some pipes requirereasonably precise location, for example to maintain a specific fallalong the length of the pipe.

Typical pipe or conduit systems include proprietary clips for securingthe pipe or conduit in place. The clips are typically specific to thediameter of conduit being installed. An installer must carry sufficientclips to properly secure all of the different conduit or pipe sizes thathe may be required to install.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a clip for securingan item relative to a support which goes some way toward overcomingthese disadvantages or which will at least provide the industry with auseful choice.

In this specification where reference has been made to patentspecifications, other external documents, or other sources ofinformation, this is generally for the purpose of providing a contextfor discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically statedotherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construedas an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, inany jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common generalknowledge in the art.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of exampleonly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect of the invention, there is a clip (for securing aportion of a long thin item such as a cable or pipe) comprising:

a cradle portion for receiving a surface of a an item to be secured,

a fixing portion with at least one formation extending to be securableto a support, and

a flexible member extending from a location at or adjacent an end of thecradle portion,

the flexible portion having a free end and formations at or near thefree end to engage with other formations fixed in relation to the cradleportion such that the cradle portion and the flexible member define anenclosing loop, such that the flexible member may hold an item againstthe cradle.

Preferably the formations progressively engage with tightening of theloop and prevent loosening of the loop through direct tension on theflexible member.

Preferably the cradle is formed as surfaces of an inwardly facing aspectof a cradle member, and the other formations are on an outwardly facingaspect of the cradle member (such that an item pressing on the cradleurges the cradle member formations toward the flexible portion).

Preferably a retaining member is spaced apart from the outwardly facingside of the cradle member sufficient that the free end of the flexibleportion may pass between the retaining member and the cradle member.

Preferably the form and arrangement of the flexible member, the cradlemember and the retaining member are such that the engagement betweenformations is enhanced by tension applied to the flexible member.

Preferably the free end of the flexible portion has a stiffnesssufficient that the outwardly facing surface or edge of the free endbears against the retaining member by pivoting of the free end around anend of the cradle member when tension is applied to the flexible member,with engagement between formations of the flexible member and the cradlemember at or adjacent the fulcrum of this pivot.

Preferably the cradle member, the flexible member and the formations areformed from a plastic material as a single body.

Preferably the fixing portion includes at least one tab portionextending away from the cradle, the tab portion including a fixingformation (for example a lug, pin, recess or hole).

Preferably the flexible member is sufficiently stiff to be selfsupporting, and extending in an arc generally away from the cradle andfixing portion, across above the cradle and back toward the cradle andfixing portion, such that the flexible member defines more than half ofthe perimeter of the loop.

Preferably the flexible member defines more than two thirds of theperimeter of the loop.

Preferably the flexible member includes formations distributed along theinner surface for a length greater than the length of the cradle member.

Preferably the flexible member includes ribs on its outward surface.

Preferably the flexible member includes a zone intended for cutting suchthat the member may be shortened to the zone.

Preferably the zone for cutting is adjacent a rib on the outer surface,being located along the flexible member between the rib and the freeend.

Preferably the zone for cutting along an inner surface of the flexiblemember is devoid of said formations.

Preferably one or more of the ribs, when in association with saidcradle, urges the flexible member into greater engagement in the socket.

Preferably one or more of the ribs that enter the socket, runs on thesurface of the retaining member, to pivot an inserted portion of theflexible member toward the cradle member, and in-use, encourage or bringformations of the socket and the flexible member into an engagedcondition.

Preferably the loop can be at least 50 mm diameter

Preferably the formations on the flexible member extend at least 60 mmalong the flexible member (such that the loop will accommodate itemswith diameter variations up to approximately 18 mm.

Preferably the cradle member is supported from one or more of theretaining member and the fixing portion by walls at both sides adjacentan end of the cradle member, to leave a socket into which the free endof the flexible member may be inserted, the socket defined by theretaining member, the cradle member and the walls.

Preferably the wall at one side is frangible, formed so as to be readilyremoved or rendered passable.

Preferably the socket includes an opening on the opposite side from thefrangible wall, the opening being spaced from the entrance to thesocket, in use a tool may be inserted into the opening to act against aportion of the flexible member which is engaged within the socket

Preferably the formations are such that they engage against tension ofthe flexible member, but allow lateral displacement of the flexiblemember relative to the cradle, in the absence of other constraints.

Preferably the fixing portion comprises a pair of tabs having supportsurfaces for pressing on a mounting surface in use, the support surfacesbeing substantially on a plane, with the cradle and flexible memberbeing wholly located to one side of the plane.

Preferably the retaining member extends between the tabs of the fixingportion.

Preferably the clip is slidably adjusted relative to said support.

Preferably the fixing portion or a said support, or both, compriseindexed formations for indexed positioning of said clip and saidsupport.

Preferably the fixing portion comprises of an indexed formation or setof indexed formations having support surfaces for reciprocal engagementor receipt, in use, with a mounting surface comprising a reciprocallyindexed formation or set of indexed formations.

More preferably the fixing portion further comprises of at least one andpreferably a pair of additional support surfaces disposed toward or atone or each end of the indexed formations, the additional supportsurfaces for location upon or engagement with one or more surfaces ofthe mounting surface in use.

Preferably the fixing portion comprises a pair of additional supportsurfaces, a first of the pair of additional support surfaces comprises apair of lugs disposed toward or at a first end of the fixing portion.

More preferably, the lugs are configured to be inserted into (orreceived by) a respective pair of lug recesses of the mounting surface.

Alternatively the lugs or the lug recesses, or both the lugs and the lugrecesses, are shaped or configured so as to locate and/or retain thelugs, and optionally allow for a relative rotation of said respectivelug and lug recess.

Preferably a or each said lug is swivelling or rotatable relative to themounting surface or a said lug recess. Alternatively, a or each said lugcomprises a rotatable or swivelling element(s) or a pivoting element orpoint with respect to the clip, or the lug recesses comprises arotatable or swivelling or a pivoting element(s) or point, or each ofsaid lugs and said lug recesses comprises a said rotatable or swivellingor pivoting element(s) or point.

Preferably each of said lugs may project toward each other, with a gapbetween their opposing surfaces so as to provide for a clamping region,the mounting surface with the lug recesses to be received within theclamping region.

Preferably the lugs are dimensioned so as to project into saidrespective lug recesses.

Preferably engagement of the lugs with the lug recesses facilitates aretention or connection of the first end of the fixing portion to amounting surface.

Preferably the clip is swivelling or rotatable or pivoting with respectto a connection point of the lugs with said lug recesses yet maintains aconnection with said mounting surface.

Preferably the clip may be swivelled or rotated or pivoted away fromsaid mounting surface in a manner so as to disengage indexed formationsof said clip from indexed formations of said mounting surface.

Preferably a second of the pair of additional support surfaces comprisesa pair of tabs disposed at or toward a second end of said fixingportion.

Preferably one or each of said tabs is shaped or includes a surfaceformation to locate with or engage (or connect) with a said mountingsurface.

Preferably the shaping or surface formation of the or each said tab isconfigured to engage with the mounting surface, in use, allowing for arelative ease of connection and disconnection, in use, by a user, yetwhich is restrained sufficiently so as to preferably avoid an unintendeddisconnection.

Preferably haptic feedback may be generated from one or more of:engagement or location or connection of one or each said lugs with saidlug recesses, engagement or location or connection of one or each saidshape or surface formation of a tab with said mounting surface.

Preferably the additional support surfaces extend from the fixingportion in a direction that is away from the retaining member and thefixing portion.

Preferably the additional support surfaces extend a distance such thattheir respective location or engagement with the mounting surface ismade in conjunction with the simultaneous engagement or mating of theindexed formations of the fixing portion with the reciprocally indexedformations.

Preferably the mounting surface is a rail.

Preferably the rail is mountable to another surface or mounting surface.

Preferably the mounting surface, when in the form of a rail, can beprovided as a part of an adjustable clip and mounting assembly.

Preferably said assembly provides for a combination of the indexedformations and the reciprocal indexed formations and for the relativepositioning of the fixing portion (and therefore the clip) to themounting surface.

Preferably the mounting surface as a rail comprises of a surface as aslide for receiving the indexed formations of the clip, or the surfaceis itself comprising of reciprocally indexed formations for reciprocalengagement with the indexed formations projecting from the fixingportion. More preferably, engagement of respective indexed formations ofsaid clip and said mounting surface allows for an indexed positioning oradjustment of the clip and the mounting surface to each other and/or toprovide a support of each part to the other.

Preferably the mounting surface as a rail can comprise of one or aseries of apertures for receiving of a fastener. More preferably, thefastener is attachable or connectable to the mounting surface as a railto a surface or another mounting surface (e.g. such as a wall, joist,gantry, soffit or other structure).

Preferably fasteners (whether penetrative or threaded) can be used toconnect the fixing portion of another clip thereto.

Preferably the fixing portion comprises one or more fixing formations(e.g. an aperture) for receiving therethrough a fastener (whetherpenetrative of threaded) for connection to the mounting surface as arail and through the apertures into a further mounting surface or astructure.

Preferably said apertures are located along a length of the mountingsurface as a rail, and may optionally be centrally located (for examplecentrally located to extending along a length of said mounting surfaceas a rail).

Preferably the mounting surface as a rail comprises one or a series ofsaid lug recesses. More preferably said lug recesses are located along alength of the rail, and optionally may be located along one or multipleedge regions of the rail for receipt of said lugs.

Preferably the mounting surface as a rail comprises of a stepped regionalong one or multiple edge regions substantially adjacent to thereciprocally indexed formations. More preferably said stepped region isstructure for retaining or locating of the shaped or surface formationof one or both of said tabs extending from the fixing portion.

Preferably said mounting surface as a rail comprises at least one saidclip in connection with a reciprocally indexed formation and at leastone said clip in connection with said fixing formations. Preferably thecradle is supported in a condition spaced above the retaining member.

Preferably the retaining member is spaced from the plane.

Preferably the flexible member extends from a location adjacent one endof the cradle, but spaced below the surface of the cradle.

Preferably the cradle is defined by a concave wall member.

The term “comprising” as used in this specification means “consisting atleast in part of”. When interpreting each statement in thisspecification that includes the term “comprising”, features other thanthat or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related termssuch as “comprise” and “comprises” are to be interpreted in the samemanner.

This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts,elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification ofthe application, individually or collectively, and any or allcombinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, andwhere specific integers are mentioned herein which have knownequivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such knownequivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually setforth.

The invention consists in the foregoing and also envisages constructionsof which the following gives examples only.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way ofexample only and with reference to the drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a view of a clip for securing an item according to a firstclip embodiment suitable for securing to a surface that the itemtraverses, with the flexible member in an unengaged condition prior touse.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the clip of FIG. 1, to show details of thesocket and the fixing portions of the connector.

FIG. 3 is a view of a clip for securing an item according to a secondembodiment, suited for connection to a surface that intersects the pathof the item, with the flexible member in an unengaged condition.

FIG. 4 is a closer view of the connection between the fixing portion ofthe second embodiment and the clipping portion.

FIG. 5 is a view of a split washer arrangement that holds the fixingportion to the clipping portion.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the clip of the first embodiment fixed to awall surface and engaged with a conduit of a first size.

FIG. 7a is a side view of the clip of the first embodiment with theflexible member trimmed to a shorter length, and FIG. 7b shows this clipfixed to a wall surface and engaged with a conduit of a second size.

FIG. 8 is a view of a clip according to the second embodiment fixed to asupport and engaged with a conduit.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a clip, such asthat which may be attached to a mounting surface in the form of a rail.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the clip of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is another perspective view of the clip of FIGS. 9 and 10.

FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of an assembly of a pair of clips ofFIGS. 9-11 attached to a mounting rail.

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 illustrates a mounting surface in the form of a rail.

FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the assembly of FIG.12.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention provides a clip that can be secured to a supportand can engage with conduits of different sizes. The preferred clip hasa range of features which provide additional advantages, as will beapparent when the features are described.

Two clips will be described in detail. The form of the clip portion isshared by both clips and will be described only once. Common parts ofthe clip portion will share the same reference numerals throughout. Thetwo clips differ in their intended mode of attachment. One is forconnecting to a flat surface that the conduit runs across or traverses.The other is for connecting to a surface that intersects the conduit,such as where a conduit passes across a series of posts or beams. Thisclip is intended to be fastened to the side of the post or beam ratherthan the face.

The first clip embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1and 2, and use of the clip will be described with reference to FIGS. 6and 7.

The different aspects of the second clip embodiment will be describedwith reference to FIGS. 3 to 5 and 8.

Where we refer in the specification to a conduit this is merely forillustration. The conduit could be a pipe or cable or any similar itemintended to be secured to a support.

Referring to FIG. 1, the clip 100 has a cradle portion 102 for receivinga surface of an item to be secured.

A flexible member 108 extends from a location 110 at or adjacent an endof the cradle portion 102.

The flexible member 108 has a free end 112. Formations 114 at or nearthe free end 112 are configured to engage with other formations 116which are fixed in relation to the cradle portion 102. When theformations are engaged, the cradle portion 102 and the flexible member108 define an enclosing loop. By this loop the flexible member 108 mayhold an item against the cradle 102.

The clip also includes a fixing portion 104 with at least one formation106 extending to be securable to a support. With the fixing portion 104secured to a support such as a wall, and a conduit enclosed in the loop,the conduit is supported relative to the wall.

In the illustrated embodiment the formations 114 are formed along alength of the flexible member and the formations 116 are formed along alength of the cradle portion. More of the formations progressivelyengage as the free end of the flexible loop and the cradle overlap moreand more by tightening of the loop. The formations have a form whichprevents loosening of the loop through direct tension on the flexiblemember. An example of suitable formations is a series of teeth.Preferably the profile of the teeth is such that they will pass overeach other when relatively moved in one direction, but hook onto eachother when relatively moved in the other direction. For example eachtooth may have a ramp face and a perpendicular or hook face.

In the illustrated embodiment the cradle 102 is formed as surfaces of aninwardly facing side 121 of a cradle member 120. The formations 116 thatare fixed in relation to the cradle are located on an outwardly facingside of the cradle member 120. The formations 114 on the flexible member108 are on an inwardly facing surface of the flexible member. In thisway, with the flexible member formations and cradle member formationsengaged, an item pressing on the cradle 102 (under force from thetightened loop) urges the cradle member formations 114 toward theflexible portion 108.

As well as supporting the conduit, the cradle forms part of a socket 130that receives the free end of the flexible member 108. A retainingmember 124 is spaced apart from the outwardly facing surface of thecradle member 120. The spacing is sufficient that the free end 112 ofthe flexible member 108 may pass between the retaining member and thecradle member.

The cradle member 120 is supported from one or more of the retainingmember 124 and the fixing portion 104 by walls 132 and 134 at both sidesadjacent an end of the cradle member 120. These walls 132,134, togetherwith the cradle member 120 and the retaining member 124 define anentrance to the socket, into which the free end 112 of the flexiblemember 108 may be inserted.

The wall 132 at one side is brief relative to the length of the cradlemember 120 and relative to the possible amount of insertion of the freeend of the flexible member 108 into the socket. It may also be briefrelative to the other wall 134. By brief, it is meant that the wallextends only a small part of the length of the cradle, or other wall,for example less than half the length of the cradle or less than halfthe length of the other wall. In particular the brief wall 132 may bepresent only in the region immediately adjacent the entrance to thesocket. The brief wall may be the only wall on that side of the socket.

In use the brief wall 132 is frangible, and may be broken away eitherpartially or completely (preferably by using a tool such as a screwdriver, pliers or side cutters) to allow disengagement of the flexiblemember from the socket by a sideways movement, that would otherwise beblocked by the presence of the brief wall 132. The brief wall 132, beingadjacent one end of the socket is reasonably accessible by a slendertool, even with a conduit engaged in the clip.

The other wall 134 includes an opening 140 on the opposite side from thebrief wall 132, for example an opening in the other wall 134. Theopening is spaced from the entrance to the socket. In use a slender toolmay be inserted into the opening 140 to act against a portion of theflexible member 108 which is engaged within the socket 130, to push theflexible member sideways so it can be disengaged, after the brief wall132 has been broken away.

The form and arrangement of the flexible member 108, the cradle member120 and the retaining member 124 can be such that the engagement betweenformations 114 and 116 is enhanced by tension applied to the flexiblemember 108. For example, in one embodiment, the free end 112 of theflexible portion 108 has a stiffness sufficient that, when tension isapplied to the flexible member 108, the outwardly facing surface or edgeof the free end is pressed against the retaining member 124 by pivotingof the free end around an end of the cradle member 120 (at the entranceto the socket). In this way the more tension that is applied the morefirmly the formations 114 of the flexible member and 116 of the cradlemember are engaged at or adjacent the fulcrum of this pivot.

In the illustrated embodiment the flexible member 108 is sufficientlystiff to be self supporting. In the illustrated embodiment the flexiblemember 108 extends in an arc generally away from the cradle portion 102and fixing portion 104, across above the cradle 102 and back toward thecradle portion 102 and fixing portion 104. Of course the flexible member108 is sufficiently flexible for the free end 112 to be moved away fromthe cradle 102 to open a space sufficient to receive a conduit or pipe.It may be sufficiently flexible to be bent to a condition extendingstraight away from the cradle or further back toward the supporting wallor structure.

The flexible member 108 is, in some embodiments, relatively longcompared to the cradle 102. For example it may constitute more than halfof the perimeter of the loop, or more than two thirds of the perimeterof the loop. This may be the case when the clip 100 is closed to suit asmall diameter conduit. When the clip is closed to suit a larger conduitthe flexible member may constitute a significantly greater part of theperimeter of the loop.

The flexible member 108 includes formations 114 distributed along theinner surface for engaging with formations 116 on the cradle member.These formations 114 may extend for a length greater than the length ofthe cradle member 120. Thus, in use an excess length of flexible member108 may be trimmed off to allow a clip to be used for smaller conduits.

The formations 114 of the flexible member and 116 of the cradle memberare such that they engage against tension of the flexible member 108. Inthe preferred embodiments the formations are shaped to allow lateraldisplacement of the flexible member 108 relative to the cradle 102, inthe absence of other constraints. The formations 114 and 116 may be aseries of complementary wide and shallow teeth, the series extendingalong the flexible member 108 and the cradle member 120. The teeth mayhave steep (or perpendicular or hooked over) surfaces which butt eachother to prevent extraction, and ramped surfaces which slide over eachother during insertion. Other formations are possible, including otherforms of teeth, or knobs and holes, or a single engagement on one partand a series of engagements on the other part.

As an alternative the teeth could be shaped to provide added securityagainst disengagement. For example they could be shaped to resistsideways disengagement as well as direct tensile extraction. The teethmay for example extend at a slanting angle across the flexible member116, so that the flexible member must undergo further tightening duringthe sideways displacement required for the teeth to disengage.Alternatively the teeth could have a more complex path, such as chevronor wavy path across the flexible member 116 so that sidewaysdisengagement is essentially precluded. Or the formations could be insome other form that does not allow for disengagement, such as aflexible pawl as part of the socket and a series of notches on theflexible member.

In the illustrated embodiment the flexible member 108 includes ribs 126on its outward surface. In use the ribs 126 may assist a user to urgethe flexible member 108 into greater engagement in the socket 130,helping the user tighten the loop and more tightly secure the item inthe clip. In the illustrated embodiment the flexible member includes atleast one zone intended for cutting. The cutting zone may be a zonewhich is thinner or narrower. In the illustrated embodiment the cuttingzone 142 does not have the teeth or other engagements that are presenteither side of the zone. This essentially defines a region of reducedthickness. In the illustrated embodiment one or more of the cuttingzones 142 also include a shallow groove across the width of the flexiblemember. In use the member may be shortened to a cutting zone by a userwith appropriate tool such as scissors or side cutters.

In the illustrated embodiment there are a series of zones 142 forcutting. Each zone 142 is adjacent a rib 126 on the outer surface of theflexible member. The zone for cutting is located along the flexiblemember 108 between the rib 126 and the free end 112. This provides thatan outwardly extending rib is located adjacent the new free end of theflexible member after the member 108 is trimmed to one of the cuttingzones. This is illustrated by line 700 in FIG. 7a . This rib, and anyother ribs that enter the socket, runs on the surface of the retainingmember 124, which assists to pivot the inserted portion of the flexiblemember toward the cradle member, and so bring more of the formations ofthe socket and the flexible member into an engaged condition. Thetrimmed flexible member is then a suitable length for securing smallerdiameter conduit, such as conduit 702 in FIG. 7B.

In the illustrated embodiments the spacing of the zones for cutting isshorter than the depth of the socket 130 so that the flexible memberdoes not usually require shortening at a location other than one of thecutting zones.

In the illustrated embodiments the cradle is defined by a concave wallmember, the cradle member 120. This concave wall member 120 preferablyhas a curvature tighter than the curvature of the flexible member 108has, at least with the flexible member in its unengaged condition.Preferably the concave wall member has a curvature that is between thesmallest diameter conduit that the clip is intended to support and thelargest diameter conduit that the clip is intended to support. Theconcave wall member 120 preferably ends without sharp corners, forexample with radiused corners, to reduce the pinpoint loads that mightbe imposed on a secured conduit of larger diameter. The cradle could beprovided by other supporting forms. For example the cradle couldcomprise a series of two or more members extending across the width ofthe clip.

In the illustrated embodiments the flexible member 108 extends from alocation 110 adjacent one end of the cradle 102, but spaced below (orback from) the inwardly facing surface 121 of the cradle. This step back150 helps to positively locate the supported conduit onto the cradle102, rather than against the root of the flexible member 108. In thisway the angle of the strap is sufficiently adaptable to differentconduit diameters by flexing in the length of the flexible member thatis between its connection with cradle and its contact with the conduit.This action can make easier the tightening of the loop, and lowerstresses on the flexible member. In addition the area where the flexiblemember leaves the cradle includes sufficient fillet or radius toalleviate the stress raising sharp corners.

In the illustrated embodiments of clip the fixing portion 104 includesat least one tab portion 106 extending away from the cradle 102. The tabportion 106 includes a fixing formation 160 (for example a lug, pin,recess or hole). In some embodiments the tab portion includes more thanone fixing formation. In use, as illustrated in FIGS. 6, 7B and 8, thetab may be secured to a supporting surface or structure by a suitablefastener, such as a screw 600 through a hole.

In the embodiment of clip illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 6 and 7 the fixingportion comprises a pair of tabs 106 extending in opposite directionsfrom the cradle 102. The tabs have support surfaces 162 for pressing ona mounting surface (for example surface 200 in FIG. 6) in use. Thesupport surfaces 162 are substantially on a plane, and the cradle 102and flexible member 108 are wholly located to one side of the plane, sothat when the support surfaces 162 are against a flat surface, it is thesupport surfaces 162 that will contact the flat surface, not the cradle102 or flexible member 108.

In this configuration, in the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1,2 6 and7, the retaining member 124 extends between the two tabs 106 of thefixing portion, and the cradle 102 is supported in a condition spacedabove the retaining member 124.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1, 2 6 and 7 the back surface 170of the retaining member 124 is spaced from the plane of the supportsurfaces 162 of the tabs 106. This allows the clip to accommodate unevensurfaces, and may also help the clip to flex.

In the embodiment of clip illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5 and 8, the fixingportion 104 comprises a tab 300 extending from the cradle 102 in adirection such that a support surface 302 of the tab 300 is on a planethat would intersect the supported conduit. So, for example, the tab 300forms a supporting post extending away from the loop of the clip, whichcan be used to space the loop of the clip away from a support structure.Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the tab 300 can be fixed to aside face 800 of a structure where the conduit runs across an outer face802 of the structure. Such a clip can find particular use in securingconduit to structural building members such as joists, rafters, studs,nogs or posts.

The fixing portion of the clip may be movable relative to the cradle.For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5 and 8, thetab 300 may be rotatable on an axis chosen such that the plane of thetab and the plane of the loop can be generally parallel, or generallyperpendicular or other angles between. This allows a clip secured, forexample, to the side face of a joist or rafter and, protruding beyondthe edge of the joist or rafter, to support a conduit running at anyangle across the edge face of the joist or rafter.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 3, 4 and 8, the clip is made in more than onepart, and these parts are secured together after being made, for exampleby integrated connection features, or by some additional securingmember. In the embodiment illustrated in more detail in FIG. 4 theclipping portion includes a socket 306 and the fixing portion includes aknob 308. The knob 308 engages in the socket 306. The disposition of thesocket and knob could be reversed. The knob may be engaged in the socketby inherent form (for example so that they are engaged in mostalignments, but may be withdrawn in one alignment), or by elasticdeformation during engagement, or by plastic deformation afterengagement (such as mushrooming the end of the knob), or by securing bysome form of fastener.

In the illustrated version the knob 308 is secured by a split washer310, the form of which is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 5. Thesplit washer 310 is itself made in two parts 500 and 502 that engagewith each other (or with the socket 306, or both). The opening 504 inthe completed washer is smaller than the opening of the socket throughwhich the knob passes, and smaller than the lateral extent of the knobend. The washer 310 prevents the knob 308 being removed from the socket306. Other forms of a washer type clip (such as a split ring orcirclip), or a split pin or similar fastener, could serve to keep theknob from removal from the socket. The illustrated arrangement has thebenefit of presenting suitable load bearing surfaces to both the backsurfaces of the knob end, and to the internal surfaces of the socket.

In some embodiments, such as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2 6 and 7, the clipdoes not have a movable fixing portion, the cradle member, the flexiblemember and the fixing portion are all formed from a plastic material asa single body.

In some embodiments, via the fixing portion 104, the clip can beslidably adjusted relative to a mounting surface 903 (e.g. a rail 1000).The adjustment of the fixing portion 104 to the mounting surface 903(e.g. rail 1000) may be of an indexed form, such as via indexedformations. In this manner, a series of pre-disposed locator pointsalong the mounting surface (or rail 1000) can be situated.

The formations may be longitudinally indexed (i.e. along its indexinglength) according to a predetermined set of dimensions and step points.

The index formations may be a series of steps or toothed projectionsfrom the mounting surface 903.

In some embodiments, such as illustrated in FIGS. 9-15, the clip doesnot have a movable fixing portion.

Illustrated in FIGS. 9-14 is another embodiment of the clip where thefixing portion 104 comprises of an indexed formation or set of indexedformations 901 having support surfaces 902 for reciprocal engagement orreceipt, in use, with a mounting surface 903 comprising a reciprocallyindexed formation or set of indexed formations 904. The embodiment ofFIG. 15 is a still further embodiment, notably where bosses or a form ofextended projection 1001 b are provided to facilitate additionalstructural support for any fasteners (not shown) which may be putthrough the aperture 1001 to fasten or affix support surface to a memberor further support surface.

The fixing portion 104 may further comprise of at least one andpreferably a pair of additional support surfaces 962 disposed toward orat one or each end of the indexed formations 901, the additional supportsurfaces 962 for location upon or engagement with one or more surfacesof the mounting surface 903 in use.

In some embodiments, as shown by the clip of FIGS. 9-13, 15 a pair ofadditional support surfaces 962 is provided, a first of the pair ofadditional support surfaces 962 comprises a pair of lugs 963 disposedtoward or at a first end 965 of fixing portion 104. The lugs 963configured to be inserted into (or received by) a respective pair of lugrecesses 964 of a mounting surface 903, or alternatively to provide forlocation of an exterior surface 1007 of the said lugs adjacent orsubstantially in contact with an inside rail surface indicated as item1008 in the figures. In this manner, the lugs may facilitate for aslidably locatable clip with respect to the mounting surface 903 or moreparticularly as the rail 1000. It will be appreciated the lugs may bemore securely fastened to the rail by a fastener which can extendthrough the aperture 1006 of each such lug, through a lug recess (whichthen becomes an associate lug aperture previously labelled as item 964),and through the other lug and lug aperture residing on the other side ofthe mounting surface or rail 1000. Such a fastener may be a threadedfastener or an adjustable fastener allowing for tightening for moresecure location and retention of the clip to the mounting surface, orvia versa when a re-positioning of the clip to the mounting surface isdesired.

Similarly, it will be appreciated a portion of each said lug may beallowed to at least partially project into a lug recess to provide for apositive location of lug with a lug recess and provide for an improvedfit and alignment of the respective apertures 1006 with 964.

Optionally, the lugs 963 or the lug recesses 964, or both the lugs 963and the lug recesses 964, are shaped or configured so as to locateand/or retain the lugs, yet allow for a relative rotation of theseparts. For example, the lugs 963 can be configured to swivel or rotaterelative to the mounting surface 904. In an alternative embodiment, thelugs 963 may themselves comprise rotatable or swivelling element(s) orpivot point with respect to the clip, or the lug recesses 964 maycomprises such rotatable or swivelling element(s).

According to the above embodiment, the lugs 963 may project toward eachother, with a gap between their opposing surfaces so as to provide for aclamping region, the mounting surface with the lug recesses 964 to bereceived within the clamping region. The lugs 963 can be dimensioned soas to project into respective lug recesses 964 and provide an effectiveclamping of the mounting surface 903.

According to the above embodiment, engagement of the lugs 963 with thelug recesses 964 can facilitate a retention or connection of the firstend 965 of the fixing portion 104 to a mounting surface 903. Theswivelling or rotatable capability can facilitate maintenance or anenduring retention or connection of the fixing portion 104 to themounting surface 903, yet allow for the clip and indexed formations 901to be angled or moved away from engagement (whether a full or partialengagement) with the reciprocally indexed formations 904 of the mountingsurface 903.

In some embodiments, as shown by the clip of FIGS. 9-13, 15 a second ofthe pair of additional support surfaces 962 comprises a pair of tabs 966disposed at or toward a second end 967 of fixing portion 104. Each ofsaid tabs 966 is shaped or includes a surface formation 968 to locatewith or engage with a said mounting surface 903.

The shaping or surface formation 968 of the tabs 966 is configured toengage with the mounting surface 903 in a way which allows for arelative ease of connection and disconnection, in use, by a user, yetwhich is restrained sufficiently so as to preferably avoid an unintendeddisconnection.

Haptic feedback can be provided to a user to provide confirmation ofwhen one or both of the first and second additional support surfaces 962are correctly located or become engaged with the relevant portions ofthe mounting surface 903. For example, an audible click or snap-typefitment of the lugs 963 or tabs 966 may be generated once engaged withthe associated portions of the mounting surface 903.

The additional support surfaces 962 preferably extend from the fixingportion 104 in a direction that is away from the retaining member 124and the fixing portion 104.

The additional support surfaces 962 preferably extend a distance suchthat their respective location or engagement with the mounting surface903 is made in conjunction with the simultaneous engagement or mating ofthe indexed formations 901 of the fixing portion 104 with thereciprocally indexed formations 904.

The mounting surface 903 can be provided as a rail 1000. The rail 1000can be mounted to a surface, such as a wall ceiling, soffit, floor,joist, gantry or any other structure.

Advantageously, the mounting surface 903 when in the form of a rail 1000can be provided as a part of an adjustable clip and mounting assembly.The combination of the indexed formations 901 and the reciprocal indexedformations 904 allows for the relative positioning of the fixing portion104 (and therefore the clip 100) to the mounting surface 903.

The mounting surface 903 as a rail 1000 comprises of a surface as aslide for receiving the indexed formations 901 of the clip, or thesurface is itself comprising of reciprocally indexed formations 904 forreciprocal engagement with the indexed formations 901 projecting fromthe fixing portion 104. Engagement of these relative indexed formationsallows for an indexed positioning or adjustment of the clip and themounting surface to get other, and to a degree a level of support ofeach part to the other.

The mounting surface as a rail 1000 can comprise of one or a series ofapertures 1001 for receiving of a fastener. The fastener can be used toattach or connect the mounting surface as a rail 1000 to a surface, suchas a wall, joist, gantry, soffit or other structure. In someembodiments, the apertures 1001 may be modified to include a projectionor other structure such as a bossed arrangement 1001 b. In this manner,a fastener or other securement device which is provided through theaperture 1001 has increased structural capabilities and may help toreduce or ameliorate deflection or distortion or other bending orgeometric variance in the shape of the mounting surface 903, particularwhen as a rail 1000. Changes in shape of the rail 1000 may impede theability for the clip to be slidably re-positioned or re-located alongthe mounting surface or rail 1000, particularly if there has been adeflection or distortion of the stepped regions 1003.

In addition, fasteners can be used to connect the fixing portion 104 ofanother of the clip embodiments thereto. For example, the fixing portion104 as shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4 itself has a fixing formation 160 (e.g. anaperture) for receiving therethrough a fastener which can be connectedto the mounting surface as a rail 1000 and through the apertures 1001into a structure. The apertures 1001 (whether with or without bosses1001 b) can be located along a length of the rail 1000, and may becentrally located.

In some embodiments, where bosses 1001 b are associated with theapertures 1001, the rail 1000 may be provided in a laddered formation,for example with the indexed formations 904 being provided on opposingsides or surfaces of the rail, with a series or sections or bridges orruns 1005. Each of the sections or bridges or rungs 1005 may belongitudinally displaced from each other (i.e. in a laddered formation)with a series of cut-out portions 1004 interposed between. The ladderedformation may provide for increased structural rigidity, in associationwith bosses 1001 b. As such, material may be removed from other regionsof the rail 1000 to minimise the quantity of material used inmanufacture of such a rail. It will be appreciated the cut-out regionsmay themselves provide a user with additional voids or apertures throughwhich fasteners may be inserted, or alternatively may provided a userwith additional access points for use when putting such a rail 1000 intouse.

In relation to FIG. 15, a top perspective view has been provided,although the underside view would be identical in terms of showingdetail.

The mounting surface as a rail 1000 can comprise of one or a series oflug recesses 964. Such lug recesses can be located along a length of therail 1000, and may be located along one or multiple edge regions 1002 ofthe rail 1000 for receipt of lugs 963.

The mounting surface as a rail 1000 can comprise of a stepped region1003 along one or multiple edge region 1002 substantially adjacent tothe reciprocally indexed formations 904. Such a stepped region 1003 canprovide a suitable structure for retaining or locating of the shaped orsurface formation 968 of a tab 966.

In other embodiments, the one of the fixing portion 104 or the mountingsurface 903 may comprise of indexed formations, and the other of thefixing portion 104 of the mounting surface may comprise of a member (notshown) reciprocally engageable with a said indexed formation, i.e. bothparts may not necessarily comprise of a plurality of indexed formations.In such an embodiment, provision can be made for at least one clip 100(e.g. that embodiment of FIGS. 1-8) to be fixed or fastened to themounting surface 903 (i.e. rail 1000) via commonality of fixingformation 160 of a first fixing portion 104 with apertures 1001 of themounting surface 903, and at least one additional clip 100 (e.g. thatembodiment of FIGS. 9-13) to be engaged with the mounting surface 903(i.e. rail 1000) and their associated indexed formation(s) 901, 904 andassociated fixing portions 962. In this manner, a system or assembly forprovision of a plurality of clips 100 oriented in different planes canbe provided for supporting of a member such as a pipe, conduit or cablewhich may be securely retained by the flexible member 108.

Although the arrangements of FIGS. 12, 13 and 15 show a rail 1000 withattached clips, being in one preferred orientation (i.e. where lugs 963are positioned in-use to be above the tabs 966 when mounted on a rail ina vertical position, it will be appreciated such orientation of clips onthe rail in-use may be varied and may, for example, be reversed (i.e.lugs 963 may be at the bottom of the clip when in the indexed positionwith the rail, and the tabs 966 may be above these, again when in avertical orientation of the rail).

In the various embodiments described and illustrated herein, it will beappreciated a greater number of ribs 126 may be provided. Increasing thefrequency and number of ribs 126 positioned along a length of theflexible member 108 may help to reduce variance or tolerance in theconnection of the associated teeth 114 with those formations or teeth116 of the cradle.

In yet further embodiments, a numerically associated index may beprovided for the indexed formations along the mounting surface or railso as to provide a user with an indication of the length of adjustmentof a clip relative to the mounting surface or rail 1000. A scale orother guides may be provided along the length of a rail 1000.

Two or more rails 1000 may be connected to each other to provide for anextended rail system. A connector (not shown) may be provided forsecuring the ends of a pair of rails together in a manner which stillallows for a clip connected to the rail 1000 to straddle the ends (andthe jointed connection) of these rails. As such, it will be appreciateda plurality of rails can be provided in jointed connection with eachother for rail lengths as desired by a user. Such a connector (notshown) may connect to each end of the rails through associated male andfemale parts on the connector and rails themselves. Alternatively, otherconnector systems may be utilised, preferably such that there is noimpedance to the ability to adjustably slide a clip along a rail,through a jointed connection and onto a connected rail.

In other embodiments the parts of the clip may be formed from a plasticmaterial. The plastic may be, for example, selected from the following:plastics/polymers of the types such as: polypropylene (PP), polyethylene(PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS),thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), including Styrenic block copolymers(TPE-s), polyolefin blends (TPE-o), Elastomeric alloys (TPE-v or TPV),thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), Thermoplastic copolyester,Thermoplastic polyamides, nylons, acetal polymers, polycarbonates,thermoplastics, polyurethanes

It is preferred that the clip be made of a lightweight and durablematerial which is able to accommodate some degree of flexion. Someexamples of suitable materials are plastics/polymers of the types suchas: polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC),acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE),including Styrenic block copolymers (TPE-s), polyolefin blends (TPE-o),Elastomeric alloys (TPE-v or TPV), thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU),Thermoplastic copolyester, Thermoplastic polyamides, nylons, acetalpolymers, polycarbonates, thermoplastics, polyurethanes or a veryductile metal e.g. soft temper aluminium.

The pipes which are to be located by the clip of this invention arethose typically used in plumbing applications, but may also includeother cables or accessories to be retained (e.g. a bundle of cablesperhaps), and these may come in a variety of types and have differingwall thicknesses depending on the manufacturer, the pressure rating, thematerial used, the requirements of the particular application and/or theindustry involved. Common types of pipes used are, copper, polybutyleneor polymers of butylene, pex pipe (white) such as cross-linkedpolyethylene, PVC (poly vinyl chloride), multi-layer compositealuminium, galvanised metals, stainless steels.

Overall, the clip is intended to be used to hold pipes or conduits of arange of sizes. Nonetheless, each clip will accommodate only a range ofsize, and to suite all sizes of conduits will still require a range ofclips. So, for example, a clip which has a fixing portion spanning about100 mm, may have a cradle about 30 mm long, a flexible member about 160mm long, and be able to accommodate conduit with an outer diameterranging between 32 mm and 50 mm. For larger sizes of conduit a clipcould have dimensions suitably scaled up. For smaller sizes of conduitthe clip could have dimensions suitably scaled down.

So, for example, the loop can be at least 50 mm diameter.

Preferably, the clip is intended to hold a pipe or conduit of an outerdiameter (OD) of about 80 to 100 mm, or about 100 to 150 mm. It will beappreciated the flexible member is of an appropriate length toaccommodate such different pipe or conduit outer diameters.

In various embodiments, the width of the cradle may be any widthnecessary to suitably accommodate a pipe or conduit or other structureto be retained, and may preferably be about 20 to 30 mm, or may be about22 to 25 mm.

In one specific embodiment, the clip may be sized and dimensioned topreferably accommodate pipes having an outer diameter (OD) of about 80to 100 mm. In such a configuration, the length of the cradle portion maybe about 30 mm, and the width of the cradle may be about 18 mm, thewidth of the flexible member may be about 14 mm. The required length ofthe flexible member depends on the size of the pipe to be accommodated,however for 80 mm OD pipes, a length of the flexible member may be about270 mm and for 100 mm OD pipes, the length of the flexible member may beabout 340 mm.

In another embodiment, for example where the clip may be sized anddimensioned to accommodate pipes having an outer diameter (OD) of about100 to 150 mm. In such a configuration, the length of the cradle portionmay be about 50 mm, and the width of the cradle may be about 18 mm, thewidth of the flexible member may be about 14 mm. The required length ofthe flexible member depends on the size of the pipe to be accommodated,however for 100 mm OD pipes, a length of the flexible member may beabout 340 mm and for 150 mm OD pipes, the length of the flexible membermay be about 485 mm.

In some embodiments, the formations on the flexible member may extend atleast 60 mm along the flexible member (such that the loop willaccommodate items with diameter variations up to approximately 18 mm).

In the other dimension, the clip may be any width sufficient to providea desired level of strength. However, to provide the ability todisengage the clip, the width is preferably much smaller than theoverall dimension. So for example the width of the clip could be lessthan about 10% of the length of the flexible member.

Flexibility, to an extent that does not detract from security andstrength of the clip, is considered advantageous for allowing the clipto fully open to receive conduit (by bending up or back the flexiblemember), for allowing the clip to be readily closed, and for allowingsome movement of the clip portion relative to the fixing portion toallow for imperfect placement of the clip or allow for unevenness of thesurface to which the clip is secured. Flexibility arises from acombination of the material property (the stiffness of the plasticmaterial and the degree of elastic yield possible with the material),and the dimensions and form of the parts of the clip. For example theflexible member is much longer than it is wide, and much wider than itis thick. In particular the thickness may only be 2 to 4 mm. The muchlarger width gives the flexible member lateral stability while it isquite bendable in the other direction (to allow a wide entry).Similarly, in the first embodiment the tabs of the fixing portion arealso 2 mm to 4 mm thick, allowing them to flex adjacent the locationthat they connect to the cradle structure.

The foregoing description of the invention includes preferred formsthereof. Modifications may be made thereto without departing from thescope of the invention.

1. A clip, for securing a portion of a long thin item such as a cable orpipe, comprising: a cradle portion for receiving a surface of a an itemto be secured, a fixing portion with at least one formation extending tobe securable to a support, and a flexible member extending from alocation at or adjacent an end of the cradle portion, the flexibleportion having a free end and formations at or near the free end toengage with other formations fixed in relation to the cradle portionsuch that the cradle portion and the flexible member define an enclosingloop, such that the flexible member may hold an item against the cradle.2. A clip as claimed in claim 1, wherein the formations progressivelyengage with tightening of the loop and prevent loosening of the loopthrough direct tension on the flexible member.
 3. A clip as claimed ineither claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the cradle is formed as surfaces ofan inwardly facing aspect of a cradle member, and the other formationsare on an outwardly facing aspect of the cradle member, such thatin-use, an item pressing on the cradle urges the cradle memberformations toward the flexible portion.
 4. A clip as claimed in claim 3,wherein a retaining member is spaced apart from the outwardly facingside of the cradle member sufficient that the free end of the flexibleportion may pass between the retaining member and the cradle member. 5.A clip as claimed in claim 4, wherein the form and arrangement of theflexible member, the cradle member and the retaining member are suchthat the engagement between formations is enhanced by tension applied tothe flexible member.
 6. A clip as claimed in claim 4, wherein the freeend of the flexible portion has a stiffness sufficient that theoutwardly facing surface or edge of the free end bears against theretaining member by pivoting of the free end around an end of the cradlemember when tension is applied to the flexible member, with engagementbetween formations of the flexible member and the cradle member at oradjacent the fulcrum of this pivot.
 7. A clip as claimed in any one ofclaims 1 to 6, wherein the cradle member, the flexible member and theformations are formed from a plastic material as a single body.
 8. Aclip as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the fixing portionincludes at least one tab portion extending away from the cradle, thetab portion including a fixing formation (for example a lug, pin, recessor hole).
 9. A clip as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein theflexible member is sufficiently stiff to be self supporting, andextending in an arc generally away from the cradle and fixing portion,across above the cradle and back toward the cradle and fixing portion,such that the flexible member defines more than half of the perimeter ofthe loop.
 10. A clip as claimed in claim 9, wherein the flexible memberdefines more than two thirds of the perimeter of the loop.
 11. A clip asclaimed in and one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the flexible memberincludes formations distributed along the inner surface for a lengthgreater than the length of the cradle member.
 12. A clip as claimed inany one of claims 1 to 11 wherein the flexible member includes ribs onits outward surface.
 13. A clip as claimed in claim 12, wherein one ormore of the ribs, when in association with said cradle, urges theflexible member into greater engagement in a socket of the cradle.
 14. Aclip as claimed in claim 12 or 13, wherein one or more of the ribs thatenter a socket of the cradle, runs on the surface of the retainingmember, to pivot an inserted portion of the flexible member toward thecradle member, and in-use, encourage or bring formations of the socketand the flexible member into an engaged condition.
 15. A clip as claimedin any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the flexible member includes azone intended for cutting such that the member may be shortened to thezone.
 16. A clip as claimed in claim 15, wherein the zone for cutting isadjacent a rib on the outer surface, being located along the flexiblemember between the rib and the free end.
 17. A clip as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 16, wherein the loop can be at least 50 mm diameter18. A clip as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein theformations on the flexible member extend at least 60 mm along theflexible member (such that the loop will accommodate items with diametervariations up to approximately 18 mm.
 19. A clip as claimed in any oneof claims 4 to 18 (when dependent on claim 4), wherein the cradle memberis supported from one or more of the retaining member and the fixingportion by walls at both sides adjacent an end of the cradle member, toleave a socket into which the free end of the flexible member may beinserted, the socket defined by the retaining member, the cradle memberand the walls.
 20. A clip as claimed in claim 19, wherein the wall atone side is frangible, formed so as to be readily removed or renderedpassable.
 21. A clip as claimed in claim 20, wherein the socket includesan opening on the opposite side from the frangible wall, the openingbeing spaced from the entrance to the socket, in use a tool may beinserted into the opening to act against a portion of the flexiblemember which is engaged within the socket
 22. A clip as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 21, wherein the formations are such that they engageagainst tension of the flexible member, but allow lateral displacementof the flexible member relative to the cradle, in the absence of otherconstraints.
 23. A clip as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, whereinthe fixing portion comprises a pair of tabs having support surfaces forpressing on a mounting surface in use, the support surfaces beingsubstantially on a plane, with the cradle and flexible member beingwholly located to one side of the plane.
 24. A clip as claimed in claim23, when dependent on claim 4 wherein the retaining member extendsbetween the tabs of the fixing portion
 25. A clip as claimed in claim24, wherein the cradle is supported in a condition spaced above theretaining member.
 26. A clip as claimed in claim 23 or claim 24, whereinthe retaining member is spaced from the plane.
 27. A clip as claimed inany one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the flexible member extends from alocation adjacent one end of the cradle, but spaced below the surface ofthe cradle.
 28. A clip as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 27, whereinthe cradle is defined by a concave wall member.
 29. A clip as claimed inany one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the clip is slidably adjustedrelative to said support.
 30. A clip as claimed in any one of claims 1to 29, wherein the fixing portion or a said support, or both, compriseindexed formations for indexed positioning of said clip and saidsupport.
 31. A clip as claimed in claim 30, wherein the fixing portioncomprises of an indexed formation or set of indexed formations havingsupport surfaces for reciprocal engagement or receipt, in use, with amounting surface comprising a reciprocally indexed formation or set ofindexed formations.
 32. A clip as claimed in claim 31, wherein thefixing portion further comprises of at least one additional supportsurface disposed toward or at one or each end of the indexed formations,the additional support surface for location upon or engagement with oneor more surfaces of the mounting surface in use.
 33. A clip as claimedin claim 32, wherein the fixing portion comprises a pair of additionalsupport surfaces, a first of the pair of additional support surfacescomprises a pair of lugs disposed toward or at a first end of the fixingportion.
 34. A clip as claimed in claim 33, wherein the lugs areconfigured to be, in use, located adjacent to or inserted into (orreceived by) a respective pair of lug recesses of the mounting surface.35. A clip as claimed in claim 34, wherein the lugs or the lug recesses,or both the lugs and the lug recesses, are shaped or configured so as tolocate and/or retain the lugs, and optionally allow for a relativerotation of said respective lug and lug recess.
 36. A clip as claimed inclaim 34 or 35, wherein a or each said lug is swivelling or rotatablerelative to the mounting surface or a said lug recess, optionally a oreach said lug comprises a rotatable or swivelling element(s) or apivoting element or point with respect to the clip, or the lug recessescomprises a rotatable or swivelling or a pivoting element(s) or point,or each of said lugs and said lug recesses comprises a said rotatable orswivelling or pivoting element(s) or point.
 37. A clip as claimed in anyone of claims 33 to 36, wherein each lug of a pair of lugs projecttoward each other, with a gap between their opposing surfaces so as toprovide for a clamping region, the mounting surface with the lugrecesses to be received within the clamping region.
 38. A clip asclaimed in any one of claims 33 to 37, wherein engagement of the lugswith the lug recesses facilitates a retention or connection of the firstend of the fixing portion to a mounting surface.
 39. A clip as claimedin any one of claims 33 to 38, wherein the clip is swivelling orrotatable or pivoting with respect to a connection point of the lugswith said lug recesses yet maintains a connection with said mountingsurface.
 40. A clip as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 39, wherein asecond of the pair of additional support surfaces comprises a pair oftabs disposed at or toward a second end of said fixing portion.
 41. Aclip as claimed in claim 40, wherein one or each of said tabs is shapedor includes a surface formation to locate with or engage (or connect)with a said mounting surface.
 42. A clip as claimed in claim 41, whereinthe shaping or surface formation of the or each said tab is configuredto engage with the mounting surface, in use, allowing for a connectionand disconnection, in use, by a user, yet which is restrainedsufficiently so as to avoid an unintended disconnection.
 43. A clip asclaimed any one of claims 32 to 42, wherein haptic feedback is generatedfrom one or more of: engagement or location or connection of one or eachof said additional support surfaces with a said mounting surface,including one or more lugs with one or more lug recesses, engagement orlocation or connection of one or each a shaped or surface formation of atab with a said mounting surface.
 44. A clip as claimed in any one ofclaims 32 to 43, wherein the additional support surfaces extend from thefixing portion in a direction that is away from the retaining member andthe fixing portion.
 45. A clip as claimed in claim 44, wherein theadditional support surfaces extend a distance such that their respectivelocation or engagement with the mounting surface is made in conjunctionwith the simultaneous engagement or mating of the indexed formations ofthe fixing portion with the reciprocally indexed formations.
 46. A clipas claimed in any one of claims 29 to 45, wherein the mounting surfaceis a rail.
 47. A clip as claimed in claim 46, wherein the rail ismountable to another surface or mounting surface.
 48. A clip as claimedin claim 46 or 47, wherein the mounting surface, when in the form of arail, can be provided as a part of an adjustable clip and mountingassembly, said assembly providing for a combination of the indexedformations and the reciprocal indexed formations and for the relativepositioning of the fixing portion (and therefore the clip) to themounting surface.
 49. A clip as claimed in any one of claims 46 to 48,wherein the rail comprises of a surface as a slide for receiving theindexed formations of the clip, or the comprises of reciprocally indexedformations for reciprocal engagement with the indexed formationsprojecting from the fixing portion of said clip.
 50. A clip as claimedin any one of claims 46 to 49, wherein engagement of respective indexedformations of said clip and said rail allow for an indexed positioningor adjustment of the clip and the rail to each other and/or to provide asupport of each part to the other.
 51. A clip as claimed in any one ofclaims 46 to 50, wherein the rail comprises of one or a series ofapertures for receiving of a fastener, the fastener for attaching orconnecting the rail to a surface or another mounting surface.
 52. A clipas claimed in claim 51, wherein said apertures are located along alength of the rail, and may be centrally located along a length of saidrail.
 53. A clip as claimed in any one of claims 46 to 52, wherein thefixing portion comprises one or more fixing formations for receivingtherethrough a fastener for connection to the rail and through theapertures into a further mounting surface or a structure.
 54. A clip asclaimed in any one of claims 46 to 53, wherein the rail comprises one ora series of said lug recesses, each of said lug recesses located along alength of the rail, and optionally may be located along one or multipleedge regions of the rail for receipt of said lugs.
 55. The clip asclaimed in any one of claims 46 to 54, wherein the rail comprises astepped region along one or multiple edge regions substantially adjacentto the reciprocally indexed formations, said stepped region being astructure for retaining or locating of the shaped or surface formationof one or both of said tabs extending from the fixing portion.
 56. Aclip as claimed in any one of claims 30 to 55, wherein the clip isrotatable, such as by swivelling or rotating or pivoting, away from saidmounting surface in a manner so as to disengage indexed formations ofsaid clip from indexed formations of said mounting surface.
 57. A clipsubstantially as hereinbefore described and/or as shown in theaccompanying figures.